Kobalt Neighbouring Rights Rebrands, Unveils New Platform Powered By The Orchard

Kobalt Neighbouring Rights, the largest neighboring rights agency in the world, has changed its name to Kollective Neighbouring Rights (KNR). With the new name, it’s also launching a new platform powered by global distribution and artist and label services leader The Orchard.

KNR will continue to assist clients with the collection of worldwide performance rights. Now leveraging The Orchard’s enhanced technology, global reach and infrastructure, the company’s roster of clients will receive a full range of global administration and performance royalty maximization services, including a new website, advanced technology and customer accounting, and a revamped client portal. Clients will also have the support data and reporting needs to manage, assert and collect payment for their artist and/or label share of performance rights income.

These new features are set to begin rolling out on Oct. 4 and continue into 2023.

“Today marks the start of a new era for KNR. We are excited to build on our relationship with The Orchard to unveil an upgraded custom-built system that will help serve our global clients in enhanced, more streamlined ways, while continuing to provide best-in-class service,” notes Ann Tausis, KNR CEO. “There are still untapped markets in neighboring rights, and we’re looking forward to utilizing the global footprint of The Orchard to initiate collections for our clients in additional territories. I’m very excited about the rebrand and our new identity.”

Brad Navin, CEO of The Orchard adds, “The Orchard provides first-class solutions, cutting edge technology, expert guidance, and brand transparency to our clients. Expanding these services to KNR’s roster will further empower performers to maximize their neighboring rights collections as they navigate a global web of complex and evolving revenue streams.”

Sony Music Entertainment (SME) acquired KNR, along with AWAL, a leading provider of services to independent recording artists, in May 2021. KNR and AWAL are part of a suite of artist and label services offerings from SME enhanced by the technology and network of The Orchard.